Representative Kat Cammack (R-FL) led members of the Republican Women's Caucus in a letter of solidarity with Stephanie Turner, the female fencer who refused to duel a biological male opponent, addressed to the heads of USA Fencing, urging them to drop its disciplinary actions against Turner and reevaluate its policy for transgender fencers.
At the beginning of April, Stephanie Turner took a knee during the Cherry Blossom Open held by USA Fencing in Maryland as a gesture of refusal to face Redmond Sullivan, who was born male but identified as female. Turner received a black card, a severe penalty, for her refusal.
As a result, Rep. Cammack's letter not only commends Turner for her actions but urges USA Fencing to reconsider disciplining her, saying, "Ms. Turner's stand reflects the deep concerns of countless women and girls across America who seek fairness, safety, and integrity in women's sports—values that we, as a caucus, are committed to upholding."
"We strongly believe that women should not be penalized for advocating for fair competition and integrity in sports," the letter continued, adding, "While inclusivity is important, it should never come at the expense of fairness and safety for female athletes. Biological differences between males and females have long been recognized, and allowing biological males to compete in women's categories undermines the very purpose of women's sports—to provide a level playing field where female athletes can excel based on their merits."
Thus, the Florida Congresswoman said USA Fencing's policy allowing for athletes who have undergone one year of testosterone suppression to compete in women's events should be repealed, as studies have shown that biological males retain physical advantages over women even during hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
"Women athletes should not be forced into choosing between unfair competition or forfeiting their right to participate," Cammack's letter added, concluding, "The Republican Women's Caucus remains dedicated to supporting policies that empower women and girls, protecting their opportunities, and honoring their contributions in athletics and beyond. We respectfully request that USA Fencing engage in meaningful dialogue with female athletes, listen to their concerns, and revise policies to ensure fairness remains at the heart of women's competitions."
